Officials unveiled a mass transit plan for Indianapolis last November.  (WIBC.com file photo: Eric Berman)

U.S. Department of Transportation Deputy Secretary John Porcari says Central Indiana is ripe for federal support when it comes to mass transit.

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Porcari says based on the region's past success in securing federal transportation grants, he expects the trend to continue. Porcari says mass transit is crucial for Central Indiana's future. He says greater mass transit for the Indianapolis metro area means more jobs, commerce and continued business growth. Porcari says many young workers demand mass transit when determining where to locate and build careers. Porcari says vehicles are important, but mass transit is essential and adds that IndyGo is not enough.

Porcari says when seeking federal aid, it's important for Central Indiana to be clear about the projects it aims to pursue and deliver on them in a timely manner. Porcari spoke while attending a Partnership for Sustainable Communities Tour in Downtown Indianapolis. Mayor Greg Ballard says the city is still waiting on state lawmakers to give them the ability to take the issue to voters. The Mayor says the city still needs to put the issue to public referendum.